Park and Recreation Month was designated in 1985 by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). It is celebrated in July to help promote and build communities through the power of parks and recreation.

The 3 Pillars Of The NRPA

  • Health and Wellness- Advancing community health and well-being through parks and recreation.
  • Equity at the Center- At NRPA, equity is at the center of all we do. As we strive for a future where everyone has fair and just access to quality parks and recreation, NRPA has released a suite of new resources centered on equity: an equity statement, a story map, and an Equity Action Plan. You can learn more about NRPA at https://www.nrpa.org/
  • Conservation- Creating a nation of resilient and climate-ready communities through parks and recreation conservation initiatives. 

Lionel University is encouraging the use of local parks, playgrounds, and aquatic centers for recreational activities in order to stress their importance, particularly in urban and suburban areas. Community parks are a great place to exercise and also a place to visit and meet local residents in your community.

You’ll find that getting out to explore a new natural area, trail, or local park can provide the enjoyment of being outside whether it be walking, cycling, exercising or holding special events. If you are looking for a new spot, you can visit local government websites to research new parks in your area.

It is important to maintain and create places where people have access to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors to walk or exercise. Currently, less than 7 percent of all trips occur on foot or bicycle, while nearly 90 percent are made by automobile. Increasing the role of walking and cycling could have a major impact on longevity and risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity. A neighborhood park is a free (or low-cost) version of a recreation facility or recreation centers. Spending time outdoors promotes physical activity and also reduces stress and improves mental health. Some parks even have outdoor fitness installments that allow locals to execute an entire strengthening routine.

A great way to help promote and celebrate Park and Recreation month is to reach out on social media. Start a walking group for a month at a local park or encourage people to meet up and play a fun sport. If you have children, create your own summer camp with friends and family to help kids get outdoors and be active. Fitness professionals can offer and hold weekly boot camps or group exercise meet-ups. You can also visit your local recreation agency or government website to learn more about any recreation programs or activities available throughout the month of July and promote what you learn.

If you are a person that likes hitting the road, creating some of life's special moments by visiting a national park is perfect for a quick getaway and to come back with a new park story. Spending time traveling to new places will help get you moving and create lasting memories exploring nature while getting exercise.

Local and national parks are more than beautiful open spaces. They are born with social equity. It is a right, not a privilege for all people nationwide to have access to safe and healthful parks and recreation. They are created for us to enjoy the outdoors, meet for social gatherings, exercise, and increase the physical and mental benefits of being outside regardless of income level, ethnicity, gender, ability, or age. So the next time you are thinking about ways to start or stay active, consider visiting a local park or exploring a new public space with friends or family.

If you want to learn more about Parks and Recreation Month, the NRPA has several resources available such as online learning, career opportunities, certificate programs, CEU’s and scholarships.

Personal trainers can take their clients outside for Park and Recreation month. When you know the principles of exercise science, it’s easy to create a great workout no matter where you are. Regardless of whether you’re pursuing an associates degree, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree, at Lionel you earn multiple certifications and specializations along the way. This means you can start working as a fitness and nutrition professional even before graduation day! And, with the help of financial aid, earning your exercise science degree is even more of a possibility. 

Get your health back and earn college credit while doing it. Check out our programs and contact Lionel today!